Senior Level Designer

We are the developers of Halo, the blockbuster series of video games. As part of Xbox Game Studios, the Halo franchise encompasses games, television series, novels, comics, licensed collectibles, apparel and more. We are looking for new Spartans to join our team to build the next generation of games and experiences in our award-winning sci-fi universe. Do you understand modern console/PC games? Do you closely collaborate with teams to drive inspiring, cohesive gameplay and narrative experiences? Are you interested in Halo and want to preserve what makes it unique—while brimming with ideas to evolve an experience that millions of players love? If so, the Halo team would love to speak with you about becoming our next senior level designer.

We are looking for an experienced Level Designer that can craft and implement gameplay spaces that push boundaries and engage players.  Responsibilities will focus on visual design, implementation of gameplay goals, scenario building and spatial relationships.  This person will work with designers, artists, and programmers to ensure that we all collaborate to create experiences that push our franchise and industry forward.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond. 

Responsibilities

Responsibilities 

• Design and build levels from inception through polish under the guidance of a Lead Designer. 
• Clearly communicate and manage level design vision through the various phases of the level development process.
• Build gameplay moments such as combat encounters, narrative events, and logic puzzles. 
• Author, review, and maintain design documentation. 
• Work closely with the art and engineering teams to develop and ensure level metrics, budgets, and that visual targets are met. 
• Iterate on level content to ensure highest quality based on feedback, playtests, and analytics. 
• Participate in and support Halo Studio’s game design culture and maintain a positive productive working atmosphere. 
• Work closely with engineers to develop and maintain level building functionality and push tool / design boundaries. 
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with external partners to ensure the highest production process, player experience and team environment. 
  
  

  

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree in Computer Science, Art, Writing, Behavioral Science, Game Design, or related field AND 6 years experience in game development and design, systems design, content production, or related field
• OR Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Art, Writing, Behavioral Science, Data Science, Game Design, or related field AND 4 years experience in game development and design, systems design, content production, or related field
• OR equivalent experience.
• Have shipped at least 1 title released to consumers/shipped game.
• 5 years working as a level designer on a first-person/third-person shooter title, with at least 2 of those years working on campaign experiences.
• Experience using game editing software (Unreal, Unity, Frostbite, etc.). 
  

Preferred Qualifications

• . 
• Experience with gameplay and level design theories and practices. 
• At least one shipped title in Unreal
• Experience mentoring team members
• Experience in using a text based scripting language (C#, LUA, UnityScript, etc.). 
• Proficient in using a 3D modelling package (Maya, 3DMax, etc.). 
• Proficiency in communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Experience with narrative based games and shooters in general.
  
  

Game Design IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $117,200 - $229,200 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $153,600 - $250,200 per year.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay

Microsoft will accept applications for the role until March 5, 2025

#gamingjobs #halo #halojobs 

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with applicable law, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.